Principal Software Engineer (Safety-Critical)

We're looking for an experienced Principal Software Engineer to join a growing technology business developing complex autonomous systems.

Reporting directly to the CTO, you'll combine hands-on engineering with technical leadership, shaping architecture, supporting engineers and facilitating Scrum delivery.

Experience developing software in mission-critical or safety-critical real-time environments is essential. Ideally, you'll bring experience in autonomous systems, robotics or flight software, within aviation, aerospace, drones/UAVs, autonomous vehicles, MOD/defence or similar.

This role could also be suited to Quant Engineers with experience working across real-time systems.

Location: - London - hybrid working.

What you'll be doing:

Leading real-time software development and architectural decisions.

Translating technical priorities into clear engineering plans.

Facilitating sprint planning, stand-ups and retrospectives.

Mentoring engineers, reviewing code and maintaining software quality.

What we're looking for:

Senior, Lead or Principal-level experience, with development skills in Embedded C, C++ and Python.

Experience with embedded software, real-time systems and hardware/software integration.

Strong technical leadership and Agile/Scrum facilitation skills.

Understanding of software architecture, testing and controlled development lifecycles.

Familiarity with DO-178C, ISO 26262 or IEC 61508 (nice to have)

Apply via the advert or email your CV to for a confidential chat.

Spectrum IT Recruitment (South) Limited is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy